A rare snowfall is expected in Miami this Friday night as part of the Winter Classic festivities at loanDepot Park, where the Florida Panthers will face off against the New York Rangers. The NHL is keeping the specifics of the snowfall plan under wraps, but fans attending the game may get to experience a sprinkle of snow.
Steve Mayer, the NHL’s events and content president, hinted that attendees should be prepared to potentially get snowed on during the game, which marks the first outdoor NHL game in Florida. The venue is being transformed with a hockey rink in place, ice being finalized, and a cooler atmosphere created intentionally.
Mayer emphasized that the event is not just about the game but also about providing a unique experience for fans. The Winter Classic setup will feature a blend of winter and summer elements, with one side of the stadium resembling a Miami beach while the other side will portray a snow-covered scene.
Although Miami hasn’t officially seen snow since 1977, the stadium’s interior will be a mix of both seasons, with plans for beach props, lifeguard stations, and even palm trees alongside wintry decorations. The game atmosphere aims to merge the contrasting themes of fire and ice, hot and cold, offering a visually dynamic experience for spectators.